Filed: Thursday, 16th October 2003By: Graeme Howlett

The annual 'Kick It Out' campaign - based upon removing racism from British football - kicked off today with a joint launch party in London and Sheffield.

In London guests such as former Arsenal midfielder Paul Davis and Rugby League star Martin Offiah kicked off the 2003 campaign with a live cast on Five Live this afternoon, answering questions about the campaign and offering advice to youngsters based in the inner-city.

Campaign chairman Lord Herman Ouseley welcomed the new campaign:

"The range and breadth of both community and club based activities taking place during the week are a testament to the good work going on in football with communities traditionally excluded from the game," he said.

"The message from this year’s week of action is that we need to fend off complacency and keep up the ongoing battle against racism through education, positive engagement and by working in partnership. This way will be the way in which we can bring equality to life."

This year's campaign continues until October 28th. By then over 500 campaign activities will have taken place across the country.

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